Springfield, Mo. – As October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, local advocates are reminding families and friends to watch for digital stalking that can turn harmless connection into controlling behavior. The Victim Center, a nonprofit that provides support to survivors of abuse, highlighted five red‑flag warning signs and offered practical steps to protect oneself online.
Five red‑flag signs to watch for
The Victim Center says technology can be a powerful tool, but it also creates new avenues for abusers to monitor, harass, and intimidate victims. While the CDC reports that one in five women and one in ten men experience stalking at some point in their lives, digital stalking adds a layer of constant, invasive surveillance.
According to the organization, the five warning signs include:
- Unsolicited messages that become increasingly demanding or threatening.
- Repeated attempts to contact you after you have asked the person to stop.
- Requests to share location data or frequent checks on your whereabouts through apps.
- Use of multiple accounts or devices to bypass blocks or privacy settings.
- Threats to share personal information, photos, or videos unless you comply with demands.
Teaching children to trust their instincts
“It’s about trusting your gut. That’s something we would tell anybody at any age,” said a representative from The Victim Center. The group incorporates this message into its prevention education classes, beginning in kindergarten. They use the metaphor of a “spidey‑sense,” encouraging children to speak to a trusted adult if something feels off.
These lessons are reinforced for older children, teenagers, college students, and young adults. The goal is to empower individuals of all ages to recognize early signs of digital control and to act before a situation escalates.
Practical steps to protect yourself
When faced with potential digital stalking, the Victim Center recommends immediate actions:
- Block the offending contact on all platforms.
- Turn off location sharing features in apps and on devices.
- Document any threatening messages, screenshots, or call logs.
- Report the behavior to law enforcement if you feel you are in immediate danger.
For ongoing support, the center operates a 24‑hour hotline in partnership with Harmony House. The number is 417‑864‑7233, and callers can receive confidential assistance, safety planning, and referrals to local resources.
Community response
Local churches, schools, and neighborhood groups have voiced support for the awareness campaign, noting that a faith‑centered approach aligns with the community’s commitment to protecting families and upholding personal liberty. By sharing these warning signs, Springfield hopes to reduce the prevalence of digital abuse and reinforce the message that every individual deserves safety and respect in both the physical and virtual worlds.
As the month progresses, The Victim Center will host additional workshops and outreach events at community centers and faith‑based venues, offering parents, educators, and young people the tools they need to recognize and respond to digital stalking.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
